Inspiration comes in all sizes and in this case, it comes in a form of a small and mighty dancer named Daniel Novikov.

At only 8 years old, Daniel already has an enviable list of dance titles under his belt. But he’s also an audience favorite, inspiring other dancers (young and old!) with his confidence and flair.

With his mom, Alla Novikova of Edelweiss Premiere Ballroom, as his teacher and partner, he’s become a rising ballroom star to keep your eye on in the ballroom world.

Daniel Novikov, World Pro-am and U.S. Latin/Ballroom Champion

After only three years on the dance floor, Daniel’s has already racked up a list of accomplishments including:

• World Preteen Pro-Am Champion
• U.S. Preteen 1 Latin and Ballroom Champion
• PBS America’s Ballroom Challenge (video posted below!)

As the U.S. representative, Daniel will compete at the World Championships with his young partner later this year in Paris. We wish them the best of luck!

We caught up with Daniel at the Desert Classic Dancesport Championships, after his performance in the Saturday evening show. We got to chat with him a few minutes, before he was off to bed to rest up for a big day of competition on Sunday.

(This video was filmed live streaming on Periscope.)

Video Breakdown:

:43 little years, many accomplishments!
1:14 how to be a dance star, and still be a kid
2:25 what it’s like when your mom, is your teacher…
2:45 Daniel’s favorite dances
3:11 future goals for the young champ
3:38 Daniel’s advice for young dancers

A BIG thanks to Daniel Novikov & Alla Novikova for chatting with us at the Desert Classic Dancesport Championships!

Daniel & Alla on PBS America’s Ballroom Challenge

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Melissa Cyr

Melissa is a former National Canadian Professional Latin Finalist and U.S. Rising Star Latin Couple of the Year, and has been teaching ballroom for over 20 years.


With her husband Erik, they are the founders of DanceSport Place and have a passion to help dancesport competitors reach their dancing goals.

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